What BestPlaces Users Say about Phoenix
Phoenix, Arizona is a bustling city known for its warm climate, desert landscape, and vibrant cultural scene. It is a popular destination for tourists and a growing city for residents, with a population of over 1.7 million. Located in the Sonoran Desert, Phoenix offers a unique lifestyle and attracts people from all over the country. To get a better understanding of what it is like to live in Phoenix, we will summarize user reviews from BestPlaces.net and provide insights from four different reviewers.
According to reviewers on BestPlaces.net, living in Phoenix has its pros and cons. One reviewer, Joe, shared that "Phoenix has something for everyone. The weather is great, the cost of living is affordable, and there is always something to do." Another reviewer, Maria, echoed similar sentiments, stating that "Phoenix is a wonderful place to live. The weather is amazing, the city is diverse, and there are endless opportunities for outdoor activities." However, not all reviews were positive. John mentioned that "the heat in Phoenix can be unbearable at times, and the city lacks green spaces and nature." Similarly, Sarah shared that "Phoenix has a lot to offer, but the traffic and urban sprawl can make commuting a nightmare."
Many reviewers mentioned the Phoenix job market as a major advantage. Susan stated that "the job market in Phoenix is booming, especially in industries like healthcare, technology, and tourism." Another reviewer, Alex, added that "the cost of living may be slightly higher, but the job opportunities and salaries in Phoenix make it worth it." On the other hand, some reviewers expressed concerns about the cost of living. Mike shared that "housing prices in Phoenix have been increasing rapidly, making it difficult for some people to afford living here." He also added that "utilities, groceries, and property taxes are also on the higher side."
The cultural and recreational offerings in Phoenix were highly praised by reviewers. Jane mentioned that "Phoenix has a rich art and music scene, as well as numerous festivals and events throughout the year." Another reviewer, David, shared that "there are plenty of parks, hiking trails, and outdoor spaces to explore in Phoenix, making it a great place for nature lovers." However, not all reviewers were satisfied with the city's cultural offerings. Mark noted that "compared to other major cities, Phoenix lacks diversity and cultural experiences." He also stated that "the nightlife scene is not as vibrant as I would have liked."
In conclusion, Phoenix, Arizona, offers a unique lifestyle with its warm climate, diverse culture, and job opportunities. However, the high cost of living, extreme heat, and lack of green spaces were concerns mentioned by some reviewers. On the other hand, the city's cultural scene and recreational activities were highly praised by many. Overall, it seems that living in Phoenix can be a great experience for those who enjoy warm weather and a bustling city lifestyle.
based on 449 ReviewsGet to know Phoenix with the latest comments and reviews from people who live in or have visited Phoenix
Positive Comments about Phoenix- Metro Area - 2/24/2011
Since I moved to the Phoenix-Metro area 12 years ago, I've yet to find a better place to live. I grew up in NYC, lived in Europe and traveled to most states in the U.S. Yet, I've had a tough time finding a better place to live than Phoenix. With Phoenix, there are many, many different neighborhoods, so we cannot generalize it is either all good or all bad. But, I found a good spot for me.
I live in the Northeast Mesa area where every day is like being on vacation. Here's why it's so good:
1. I can hike right out my doorstep
2. I feel safe in my community
3. People are friendly and say hello to each other on the street
4. I'm within a few miles of excellent ethnic restaurants that are not chains
5. I can reach an upscale mall in Scottsdale with a 15 min drive on the freeway if I want to
6. There is work if you look for it. Global companies that are hiring exist here. The people I work with are extremely intelligent & good people.
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Phoenix - 1/8/2011
Phoenix is a pretty decent place, depending on what you're looking for. I have lived mostly in the midwest, east, and southeast, so Phoenix was different for me.
You'll be able to get most of the positives (warm winters, cheap housing, beautiful terrain) and negatives (some traffic, hot summers, sprawl) from the other reviews, but I wanted to add something a bit different.
I'm one of those people that likes culture/arts/music, from funky coffeeshops to great concert venues, interesting restaurants, and arts events like first fridays art walks. In this area, Phoenix surprisingly delivers, and offers a unique blend of "big city" opportunities with small or medium size city charm.
Downtown Phoenix, and the area just north along Central and the roads close to that, has some of the best coffeeshops and restuarants I have visited. There are funky bars, diverse culinary selections, tons of local/independent places, and cool art galleries. There is a
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Phoenix.... Leave it! - 12/23/2010
I came to Phoenix in 1996 when I began college at Arizona State University. I have to say that I was impressed by what the valley had to offer at first. I came from the San Francisco Bay Area, where I grew up; and it was a welcome change of pace. I enjoyed the mountains and desert, the monsoon and the arid climate. After attending college I spent several years in other states (FL, MS, TN, MI) and I must say I couldn't wait to get back to Arizona. I eventually moved back to Arizona and again, enjoyed it. I decided I would purchase a condo and put down roots so to speak. What a disaster that was. Phoenix was an epicenter of the housing screw job. I paid 240 for my condo and now it's worth 59. I'll NEVER get rid of it. Of course this is also a national problem, but if you look at Phoenix it was a widespread raping of the average buyer. Now I will be forced to hold onto this property, probably forever, because I put so much money down. I will end up renting my place out
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Phoenix metro experience - 12/18/2010
Moving to the Phoenix metro area you do have to do your research to know the good areas from the bad, afterall it is a huge area and it is like any other metropolitan area....I wouldn't move to a city that is in the top 10 for size until I did my research period. First I prefer the east side of Phoenix over the west side. Just my choice. Not to say that there is no nice cities there. The east and southeast, tempe and Scottsdale I know well.
I've lived in Mesa for most of the years I was there, but probably woudn't now because it has become rundown in pockets thoughout the city, but for most of the years I lived there I really enjoyed it.
Now Gilbert is a very nice smaller town which is a suburb. It's very family oriented because of the Mormons, but safe and nice. I would live there no questions asked.
So like I said people do your home work before you go anywhere, especially to live. If you don't then I don't feel sorry for you!
Ex Phoenician from
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Very happy in Phoenix - 11/23/2010
I'm a 13 year resident of Phoenix who has previously lived in a few different cities across the country (Minneapolis, South Bend, Tampa, Baltimore, DC) I like Phoenix the best for many reasons.
The climate is great almost all year long, June through August is hot and can become unbearable if you have to be outside for long periods, but September through June more than make up for it.
If you're looking for something to do in town you have literally hundreds of options on any given day. By joining a site like Groupon or checking Showup.com you can afford going out as well. If you want a weekend trip Phoenix is only a few hours from the mountains or the ocean, and the desert will leave you breathless with it's beauty.
Public school funding leaves something to be desired, but you can enroll your child in any public, private or charter school that has room for them. As an active parent I've been very happy with the public school education my children are
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Phoenix South east Suburbs - 11/8/2010
Love it here South East suburb of Phoenix. Climate,mid Oct-June is dry similar to a fall day with warmth. July days through September are hot -we stay inside. We purchased a home 5 years ago in Southeast suburbs San Tan Valley, Queen Creek area. Our home price dropped drastically because too many investors bought these great homes. Well, investors were wrong, home prices went down. Many Canadians are snapping up these bargains for lst and 2nd homes. Newcomers purchasing in Johnson Ranch (San Tan Valley) because of amenities- golf course and heated swimming pools and quality people, and low crime rate. We rarely go to downtown Phoenix. I just don't care for most big cities downtown area or the people which frequent that area. all I really need is close to my home, the private swim pools, country clubs. The people are unassuming, meaning that a highly educated person (engineers and physics, doctors, seem to be indistinguishable from other) or wealthy trades people don't flaunt
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Living and Visiting Phoenix Area - 11/1/2010
I have lived in the south western states all of my life (Texas, New Mexico, California, Oklahoma, and Arizona). I have been to many of the United States and they all have good and bad. Living in Phoenix and the surrounding areas is wonderful. Access to most of the things people enjoy shopping, concerts, theater, education, festivals, museums, nature, sports, and many others. As well as, diverse and ample employment. People and neighborhoods are not really different in Phoenix then in many other Large Cities. You can find many wonderful people and neighborhoods and some not so wonderful. I walk in every city that I go to and feel safe in most. I do take precautions in every city or town that I'm in to reduce my risk.
The road systems and public transit are being worked on to improve the Phoenix area. Driving in Phoenix (or any large city) is pretty fast and furious and not for the timid -- and I find it a lot better then driving in Dallas TX or LA.
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Is a Phoenix a dumpster? YES! - 10/30/2010
I took a little trip to from S.F.to Phoenix last week. It was the worst place I had ever witnessed. I could not believe how ridiculous people are there. While at a concert, a man grabbed me from my throat and pulled me back. Someone else pulled my hair. Women were pushing me, kneeing me, harassing me. The oddest thing is that when I would confront anyone about it, they would stare into outer space, as though they were brain dead and unable to understand their surroundings. It was unbelievable! I am surprised I did not give them what they deserved. I just never ever in my life seen anyone act in that manner, it was the oddest thing ever. I hate that place. If you are thinking of visiting, DON'T
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